John Brooker ‘s hedge in East Rudham, Norfolk Hedging your bets
Ok, so it’s a terrible heading, but November is the perfect time for planting new hedges, and at this time of year it’s a very safe bet. Prior to the use of containerised plants (which can be planted at almost any time of the year) planting between November and March was a gardeners only option, and as far as the plants are concerned it’s still the best by far.
When plants are dormant (asleep) they will hardly even notice being moved, and by spring when their new leaves emerge their roots will have already pushed through the surrounding soil in their new home.
Hedges are often thought of as hard work, time consuming and have been at the centre of heated neighbourly debates (whether it’s cutting them too low or letting them grow too high).
They are great for blocking out
unsightly views, adding privacy, and also make a wonderful place for wildlife to live, rest and nest. For the past 3 years we’ve had a variety of birds nesting in our Yew hedge and the addition of extra life in the garden always pleases me.
If you’re looking for a quick solution to a green screen, then you have two options, either instant (such as a 2m high instant hedge, pre grown, trained and clipped, perfect for the impatient gardener), or Leylandii conifers. As I write this I can hear the screams, but it really is the best option for speed and it’s cost-effective. Do be aware that legally, as of a couple of years ago, you have to keep its growth contained to 2m high if on a boundary
80 (this does not apply to any other species).
For the more patient gardener, try the classic evergreen Yew hedging. Like most beautiful things in life, it’s more expensive to buy.
It’s
also slower growing (15-30cm per year), but does only require cutting once per year in September, and will provide you with the most beautiful hedge. I also favour the evergreen Portuguese laurel, which has a smaller leaf than the more common cherry laurel, or Beech if it doesn’t need to be evergreen.
For a smaller hedge it has to be Box, but alternatives include Lavender, Berberis, Lonicera, and for the perfect no-cut low hedge go for a small Hebe, (simply choose a variety which only grows to the height you actually want the hedge to grow to).
Whichever hedge you choose, the ground preparation should be the same.
For
containerised, bare-root or root-balled hedges, dig out a trench which follows the line of the proposed hedge, this should be at least one and a half times wider and deeper than the rootball. Fork over the base of the trench and return some of the soil, so that when you plant the hedge it sits at the same level as previously planted (i.e. not too deep). Backfill with the removed soil, add a handful of bonemeal per plant, and dig in. Firm with your boot then water well before mulching with 5cm of compost, manure or bark clippings.
Happy Gardening... To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
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